Governor Tom Wolf vetoed House Bill 972, legislation targeting transgender youth.

“I have been crystal clear during my time in office that hate has no place in Pennsylvania, especially discrimination against already marginalized youth representing less than half of 1 percent of Pennsylvania’s population,” said Wolf.

“Having separate biologically-specific teams, which Title IX protects, furthers efforts to promote women’s equality,” wrote Rep. Barbara Gleim (R-Cumberland) when proposing the legislation. “Biologically-specific teams accomplish this by providing opportunities for female athletes to demonstrate their skill, strength, and athletic abilities while also providing them with opportunities to obtain recognition and accolades, college scholarships, and the numerous other long-term benefits that flow from success in athletic endeavors.”

“My administration is committed to supporting transgender individuals and ensuring Pennsylvania is an inclusive place for everyone,” Wolf said. “To the LGBTQ+ community in Pennsylvania and especially to our transgender and nonbinary youth and young people: I see you, I support you, I respect you, and I stand with you.”

Gleim, along with Reps. Martina White (R-Philadelphia), Valerie Gaydos (R-Allegheny), Stephanie Borowicz (R-Clinton/Centre) and Dawn Keefer (R-York) issued a statement:

“The Fairness in Women’s Sports Act passed by majorities in both the House and Senate with members casting votes representing their districts. Unfortunately, and predictably, Gov. Tom Wolf vetoed the bill, making it clear what we knew all along – he does not support women and their opportunity to compete on a level playing field. He does not support Title IX and the important advances women have made in scholastic athletics in the last 50 years.”